Starting freshman year in Drexel’s Animation & Visual Effects (ANFX) program is an exciting step into the world of digital storytelling, animation, and motion graphics. This first year is all about learning the fundamentals, exploring different animation techniques, and getting hands-on experience with industry-standard tools. Whether you’re interested in 2D animation, 3D modeling, or VFX, freshman year sets the foundation for a creative and technical journey ahead.
Freshman-year coursework introduces students to essential animation principles and software while also incorporating general art and design fundamentals. Freshman year provides the foundation for future courses in character animation, visual effects, and advanced 3D modeling. Sophomore year will bring more complex projects, deeper exploration of animation techniques, and opportunities to specialize in different areas of ANFX.
Core Classes
Freshman-year coursework introduces students to essential animation principles and software while also incorporating general art and design fundamentals. Key classes include:
- Digital Imaging for Animation & VFX (ANIM110): Covers image acquisition, lighting, and processing techniques used in the animation and VFX fields.
- Computer Graphics Imagery (ANIM140): Focuses on representing 3D objects and spaces in 2D using both traditional drawing and digital tools—foundational for 3D modeling and animation.
- History of Animation (ANIM215): Explores the evolution of animation from early techniques to modern digital approaches in both 2D and 3D.
- Animation (ANIM211): Introduces concepts of 3D animation, narrative structure, storyboarding, and the creation of short animations in timeline-based software.
Skills You’ll Learn
- Animation Principles: Movement, timing, and weight for lifelike motion
- 2D & 3D Design: Digital painting, character creation, and environments
- Basic Rigging & Modeling: Creating and prepping characters for animation
- Storyboarding & Visual Storytelling: Sketch-based planning and narrative development
Projects & Challenges
Freshman-year projects focus on applying learned techniques through short animation exercises. Typical assignments include:
- Bouncing Ball Animation: A classic exercise to master timing and squash & stretch principles
- Walk Cycle Animation: Bringing a character to life through realistic movement
- 3D Object Modeling: Creating simple models like a chair or vehicle to practice form and texturing
- Storyboard Sequence: Planning visual narratives through a short illustrated sequence
One of the biggest challenges for ANFX students is adapting to the technical side of animation. Learning new software and troubleshooting can be daunting, but persistence and practice pay off.
Tips for Success:
- Draw frequently—even if you work digitally. Strong drawing skills help across all animation forms.
- Master key software tools like Photoshop, Maya, and After Effects.
- Observe real-life movement. Study how people and objects move to create believable animation.
- Experiment with storytelling. Great animation is rooted in compelling narratives.